- WHO WE ARE -
About Fur Takers of America
A national fellowship of trappers, run almost entirely by volunteers, built to protect a heritage that goes back generations.
1968
FOUNDED IN SMITHBORO, IL
1969
INCORPORATED IN MISSOURI
Today
VOLUNTEER-RUN, ALL ACROSS THE U.S
OUR STORY
Built by trappers, for trappers
Fur Takers of America was founded in 1968 to give trappers across the country a unified, national voice — one strong enough to defend the practice and carry the heritage forward. The first issue of the organization's magazine went out that same spring.
The first convention was held that Labor Day weekend in Smithboro, Illinois, at the Ed Bauer Fur Company. A year later, on October 28, 1969, FTA was formally incorporated in Missouri — where it remains headquartered today as a not-for-profit, run almost entirely by volunteers.
FOUNDING OFFICERS, 1968
Wally Schmieg · Paul LeGer · Claude Cochrane Jr. · John Parker · Eddie Stephenson
OUR PURPOSE
"Preserving our heritage while protecting our future."
FTA FOUNDING PURPOSE, 1968
WHAT FTA DOES
More than a membership card.
01
The Fur Taker Magazine
A monthly publication covering the craft, the industry, and the people in it.
04
Chapter Affiliation
Partnering with state and regional trapping organizations nationwide.
02
Trapper's College
The only program of its kind. Hands-on trapping education for all ages.
05
Grassroots Advocacy
Staying close to members and speaking up where trapping policy is decided.
03
Annual Rendezvous
A yearly convention hosted in a different state each year.
06
And Much More
Scholarships, brochures, best-practice guides, and ongoing education.